This week’s double parsha is as relevant as ever – from recounting our journey to the boundaries of the land (and ability to successfully challenge them), to our obligations towards our brothers and sisters (not to conflate with neighbours or allies or people that are neither), to war and much more.
However, the idea of sanctuary cities is playing on my mind. This is much more than just a way of dealing with unintentional loss of life. The laws given is allowing certain closure for all the parties involved – from reacting out of pain by relatives of the victim, to giving a chance to the guilty party and above all allowing the self sustainable life in the city of refuge itself.
Furthermore, the complicated relationship between people living in these cities of refuge with the High Priest and the tribe of Levy overall is showing the urgency of connection with good teachers, need for the court of justice as well as a clear statement of HaShem’s compassion towards us. Just another example of a balanced approach to our lives.
For me, finding the balance is one of the hardest challenges, especially during weeks of remembering our Temple. So grateful to HaShem for the Torah. May the new month bring us true joy.
Shabbat Shalom 💖
Moments of Clarity 